Midwest Renewable Energy Association

Intro to Solar Jobs
2024-12-14 08:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | Madison College, 1701 Wright Street, Madison WI 53704, WI, 53704, United States
SOLAR WORKFORCE TRAINING
In partnership with The MadiSUN Workforce Training Program, this session aims to provide essential, entry-level training for anyone interested in joining the solar workforce. Participants will learn about the outlook for solar workers, how photovoltaic (PV) systems work, different PV system types, system components, and job site skills that will lead to a successful career. No prerequisites are required.
The course will take place on December 14th will take place at Madison College. This is an eight-hour, one-day training offered through MadiSUN and MREA.
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Solar Plus Storage Training (PV 450.04)
2024-12-12 09:00 - 2024-12-13 17:00 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
Come to the MREA to see a variety of cutting-edge solar energy storage products and applications in our Energy Storage System (ESS) Tech Center. Thanks to generous donations from many of our sponsors, the Tech Center is an integral part of our Solar Plus Storage training package, available four times throughout the year. Both courses (PV 451 & 452) are approved for NABCEP advanced PV training, recertification & renewal credit hours.
This is a two-day in-person course held at MREA’s Energy Storage Tech Center in Custer, WI. Class times are 9a.m. – 5p.m. CT.
Prerequisite Required: PV 101

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December Member Event
2024-12-11 17:00 - 18:30 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
Calling all MREA members — save the date!
Let’s talk about the election and what comes next. We are at a crossroads, and this is an opportunity to learn. We’ll share our perspectives and expected impacts as it relates to the energy system, and we want to hear from you too. We’ll light the fire, discuss how we move forward, and re-ignite our passion and commitment.
This is not a political event and is open to all MREA members. Please RSVP so we can plan accordingly; seats may be limited.
When: Wednesday, December 11th, 5-6:30 p.m.
Where: MREA Education Room, 7558 Deer Road, Custer, WI 54423

RE+ Midwest
2024-11-07 - 2024-11-08 | Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, 301 E North Water St, Chicago, IL, United States
Join the Midwest Renewable Energy Association at RE+ Midwest on November 7-8 in Chicago, IL. This event is designed to serve and advance the clean energy market by bringing together buyers and suppliers in solar and energy storage to explore business solutions, new technologies, policy initiatives, and other market factors.
Learn more and register today.

Energy Career Fair
2024-10-17 08:00 - 17:00 | Energy Education Center, 4000 Campus Road, Eau Claire, WI, 54703, United States
Join us this fall for an exploration of energy careers! The energy industry is experiencing rapid growth, and there’s a rising demand for expertise in energy-related fields. Attendees will have the chance to explore careers from electric power distribution to energy efficiency through a series of exciting hands-on demonstrations and stations.
Among the seven unique stations at the event, MREA will showcase our Mobile Solar Training Lab, featuring live demonstrations of both grid-tied and off-grid solar systems. This interactive experience will provide valuable insights into the practical applications of solar technology and its role in the future of energy.
Each of the seven stations will be offered concurrently for 25 minutes to keep students and educators engaged and interested throughout the day. Don’t miss this opportunity to get up close and personal with promising career paths and discover how you can help shape the future of energy. We hope to see you there!

Who: High school and middle school students
What: Energy Career Fair, sponsored by Wisconsin Public Service
When: Thursday, October 17, 2024, with rotating, hands-on, sessions throughout the day
Where: Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, hosted by Slipstream
Cost: FREE (water stations and lunch provided!)

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MnSEIA Gateway to Solar Conference
2024-10-08 - 2024-10-09 | The InterContinental MSP Airport Hotel in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
About the event: The Gateway to Solar Conference, hosted by the Minnesota Solar Energy Industries Association (MnSEIA), is one of the Midwest’s biggest and best solar + storage conferences. Each year solar installers and developers, manufacturers, distributors, financiers, engineers, utilities, job trainers, trade unions, non-profits, government agencies, and more gather for quality networking, education, and fun off-site events.
We’re Presenting: Catch one of MREA’s NABCEP Approved Energy Professional Training Sessions at the Conference!
October 8th:

10:30 -11:30 AM – PV 620: Fire Code Regulations for PV Systems

1:30 – 2:30 PM – PV 451: Energy Storage Fundamentals (Lithium-based battery systems)

2:45 – 4:00 PM – PV 604: Inspecting PV Systems (NEC and PV Systems)

Event Details:
When: October 8-9, 2024
Where: The InterContinental MSP Airport Hotel in Minneapolis, Minnesota
Event Page: https://bit.ly/MnSEIA
REGISTER

Bill Nye the Science Guy LIVE in Milwaukee
2024-10-06 19:30 - 21:00 | The Riverside Theater, 116 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53203, United States
The countdown is on to save the world from catastrophic climate disaster, but is it too late? Bill Nye doesn’t think so! A cultural icon who made science accessible and “cool”for kids in the ‘90’s, Bill Nye is back, and this time with a LIVE stage show and a new mission: to help rescue Earth’s inhabitants from climate change…with science! Join us at the Riverside Theater in Milwaukee on October 6, 2024, at 7:30 PM for “The End IsNye.”
As a special offer for our community, use code BN10 for a 10% discount off ticket prices (excludes VIP).
Delivered with a solid dose of humor and nostalgia, Bill will take us back through his history as “The Science Guy”, and will jump forward to today, discussing his passion for the latest scientific advancements in the race to reverse the impending doom of climate change. Engineer, comedian, author, and inventor, audiences revere this good-natured Renaissance man’s infectious blend of humor, intellectual curiosity, and devotion to solving some of the world’s most complex challenges through science. Best known for his 18-time Emmy-winning run as “Bill Nye the Science Guy,” he brings his love of science and flair for comedy to every appearance–deftly translating complex issues to help inspire audiences of all ages to engage with and improve our world. Don’t miss your chance to see Bill Nye LIVE in Milwaukee — and see why, after all this time, science still rules!
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Project North Festival
2024-09-20 - 2024-09-21 | Rhinelander, WI, US 8 and WIS 17, Rhinelander, WI, United States
Join Project North on Sept. 20-21 in Rhinelander, WI for a festival that brings artists and audiences together to play, explore, and connect around music, art, and the environment. All that participate will leave informed and inspired to live creatively, sustainably, and connected with the Northwoods community, ecology, and economy.
Who: Everyone!
What: Project North Festival
When: Friday, September 20 – Saturday, September 21
Where: Downtown Rhinelander, WI
Cost: $75 for two day ticket; $45 for one day ticket

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Midcontinent Clean Energy Summit
2024-08-20 - 2024-08-21 | Marriott Indianapolis North, 3645 River Crossing Parkway, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46240, United States
Join the MREA at the Midcontinent Clean Energy Summit on August 20-21, 2024 in Indianapolis, IN and save 15% when you use code 242110.
Get a deep dive into renewable project development opportunities and challenges in the exploding MISO market! This summit brings together policymakers, leading developers and financiers, technical experts, C&I customers, and utility executives that will provide their collective insights into the development and finance of utility scale wind and solar, storage, community solar, decarbonization, and other projects.
Register by August 19 and get 15% off when you use code 242110!

The 33rd Annual Energy Fair
2024-06-22 08:00 - 17:00 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
TICKETS GO ON SALE APRIL 1 AT 9 A.M.
Join us at The 33rd Annual Energy Fair on Saturday, June 22, 2024!
Organized by the Midwest Renewable Energy Association, The Energy Fair is the nation’s longest-running event of its kind and brings thousands of attendees together to learn about sustainability and clean energy, connect with others, and take action toward a sustainable future for all.
This year, The Energy Fair has evolved into a single day, consumer-focused event. The Fair will feature a competitive selection of workshops, demonstrations, exhibit booths, and the usual music and fun that has always been at the heart of the Fair.
Join us for the Rise Up and Race 5K the morning of The Fair starting at 8 a.m. Sign up at: https://runsignup.com/Race/WI/Custer/TheEnergyFair5K
The Energy Fair happens rain or shine! We’ll see you there!
Learn more at: www.theenergyfair.org

Industry Social
2024-06-21 17:00 - 22:00 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
After a full day of hands-on demos showcasing top-of-the-line renewable energy products and services, let’s unwind and celebrate together at the Industry Social.
What’s Happening:

Enjoy a Free beverage courtesy of MREA’s Training Programs.
Live music from Dangergrass
Tasty Wisconsin snacks and refreshing beverages
Connect with industry professionals and expand your network
Explore the PV Pavilion to learn about MREA Training programs

Come mingle, network, relax, and toast to the future of renewable energy with us! Sponsored by MREA Training Programs.
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Solar Roof Demo: IronRidge
2024-06-21 15:00 - 16:30 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
This is a solar roof demo presented by IronRidge showcasing IronRidge XR and AIRE rail platforms and the new Halo Ultra Grip (HUG) roof attachment. IronRidge®, an Enstall® company, designs and manufactures structural hardware for residential and commercial solar systems. For over 20 years, they’ve worked closely with solar professionals to build strong, simple, and cost-effective products. Enstall, including IronRidge®, utilizes a certified quality system registered with Systems Certification Body (SCB™) to meet the requirements of ISO 9001, maintaining the highest quality management standards.
See their equipment live in action!
Location: Red Tent
Presenter: IronRidge
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ESG Renewables, or Energy Efficiency?
2024-06-21 15:00 - 16:30 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
This is a 90-minute Workshop held during MREA’s Industry Demo Day.
ESG, Renewables or Energy Efficiency: what’s right for your Facility?
This presentation explores the nuanced decision-making process behind choosing between and prioritizing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, renewable energy adoption, and energy efficiency measures for a facility, based on where a company is at and their goals.
Location: North Building
Approved for: 1-NABCEP CE
Presenter: Brett Hanson, Energy Solutions Business Development Leader for WERNER Electric
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Solar Roof Demo - Martin Solar
2024-06-21 15:00 - 16:30 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
This is a 90-minute Interactive Solar Roof Demo held during MREA’s Industry Demo Day.
As the shift towards renewable energy accelerates, Martin Solar is harnessing the power of the sun to transform roofs across America. Their team merges the expertise of solar energy specialists and union electricians with Martin’s renowned roofing professionals. Headquartered in Southern and Central Illinois, they take pride in delivering top-quality solar installations to their region, supported by Martin’s legacy of trust and excellence spanning over four decades. Check out their products, and get hands-on with solar installation and roofing techniques in this interactive solar roof demo!

Location: Green Flag Tent

Presenter: Martin Roofing & Solar

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Certification Makes a Difference
2024-06-21 15:00 - 16:30 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
This is a 90-minute Workshop held during MREA’s Industry Demo Day.
NABCEP will provide an update on the new opportunities being launched regarding the certification process, continuing education opportunities, and solar workforce development. Topics will include the new NABCEP Energy Storage Installation Professional certification, the development of a new PV Associates.

Location: Blue Flag Tent

Presenter: North American Board of Certified Electrical Practitioners

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LFP and Flooded Lead Acid Batteries
2024-06-21 15:00 - 16:30 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
This is a 90-minute Workshop held during MREA’s Industry Demo Day.
This session will be an open discussion about batteries used in Solar Systems. We will address the Design, setup, and maintenance of LFP, AGM, GEL, and FLA battery banks. Spend some time with us and get your battery questions answered.

Location: Purple Flag Tent
Approved for: 1-NABCEP CE

Presenter: Steven Higgins, Technical Services Manager for Rolls Battery Engineering

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Off-grid Living with SimpliPHI Batteries
2024-06-21 15:00 - 16:30 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
This is a 1-hour Energy Pro Workshop held during MREA’s Industry Demo Day.
Whether you live off-grid by necessity or by choice, Briggs & Stratton’s expertise in solar+storage+generator microgrid electrical systems ensures that you have all the power you need to cover 100 percent of your power requirements.

Location: Ed Room
Approved for: 1-NABCEP CE

Presenter: Daniel Moyer, Briggs & Stratton Energy Solutions

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Product Demo: ConnectDER
2024-06-21 14:30 - 15:00, 2024-06-21 12:00 - 12:30 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
This is a 30-minute product demonstration of ConnectDER’s meter socket adapters.
Founded in 2011 in Philadelphia by Whit Fulton, ConnectDER was born to solve the thorny problems of natural resource use with simple, usable solutions. For over a decade, we’ve worked with utilities, solar installers, and electricians to develop meter socket adapters that connect homes across the nation to clean energy resources in a safe, affordable, streamlined way. We are inspired to remove roadblocks to clean energy adoption.
ConnectDER meter socket adapters are installed directly between the utility meter and the meter socket, creating a simple, accessible, outdoor interconnection point for DERs such as solar and EVs. Avoid old, difficult-to-access and non-code-compliant services.
Available now in ComEd, several municipal utilities in Ohio. Coming soon Evergy, Ameren. Approved in NJ, CO, AZ, VT with more utilities approving all the time. Each utility will have their own process. ConnectDER focuses on training with installers so everyone is up to date on their part of the process. We are here to help!
Location: Pergola
Presenter: ConnectDER
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Afternoon Coffee & Networking
2024-06-21 14:00 - 15:00 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
Take a break and recharge at our afternoon coffee break sponsored by Pattern Energy, happening from 2 pm to 3 pm. Savor a cup of coffee, mingle with fellow attendees, and enjoy a moment of relaxation during the busy day of demos. Or grab a meal, snack or treat from one of our food vendors.
Location: Main Stage Tent
Sponsor: Pattern Energy

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Commercial & Utility Storage Use Cases
2024-06-21 12:30 - 14:30 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
This is a 2-hour Workshop held during MREA’s Industry Demo Day.
In this workshop, we’ll review the different uses for large scale storage.

Location: North Building
Approved for: NABCEP CE TBD

Presenter: Richard Henes, Team Battery Storage and Electrical Gear Specialist for Greentech Renewables

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Solar Roof Demo: IronRidge
2024-06-21 12:30 - 14:00 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
This is a solar roof demo presented by IronRidge showcasing IronRidge XR and AIRE rail platforms and the new Halo Ultra Grip (HUG) roof attachment. IronRidge®, an Enstall® company, designs and manufactures structural hardware for residential and commercial solar systems. For over 20 years, they’ve worked closely with solar professionals to build strong, simple, and cost-effective products. Enstall, including IronRidge®, utilizes a certified quality system that has been registered with Systems Certification Body (SCB™) to meet the requirements of ISO 9001, maintaining the highest of quality management standards.
See their equipment live in action!
Location: Red Tent
Presenter: IronRidge
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Solar Canopies - Building Beautiful Resiliency
2024-06-21 12:30 - 14:00 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
This is a 90-minute Presentation held during MREA’s Industry Demo Day.
Learn how the Couillard Solar Foundation is building resilience in WI through their solar pavilions. See how the canopy system works, learn about their partners and find out more about the foundation and its mission. For anyone interested in furthering solar power in your home, business or area.

Location: Solar Pergola

Presenter: Jackie Harrison-Jewel, Cal Couillard, Couillard Solar Foundation

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PV Design Precision: Scanifly
2024-06-21 12:30 - 14:00 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
This is a 90-minute Presentation held during MREA’s Industry Demo Day.
Explore the technology that’s improving project speed, accuracy, and safety. This session will demonstrate how to go from a preliminary design to a plan set in one day on one platform, without sacrificing accuracy or quality. Attendees will learn how to digitize site data and fly different drone models. Attendees will also explore how to design a PV array in seconds on a photogrammetry-produced to-scale 3D model.

Location: Blue Flag Tent

Presenter: Scanifly

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Air Source Heat Pumps in the Midwest
2024-06-21 12:30 - 14:00 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
This is a 90-minute Presentation held during MREA’s Industry Demo Day.
This session will cover technology advancements and market trends of ASHPs in the Midwest. Common customer and contractor myths surrounding ASHPs will be covered and the session will include live polling and discussion surrounding workforce gaps and opportunities. Live Q&A session.

Location: Purple Flag Tent

Presenter: Justin Margolis, SlipStream

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Design and Installation of the Enphase 3.0 ESS
2024-06-21 12:30 - 14:00 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
This is a 90-minute Workshop held during MREA’s Industry Demo Day.
Targeted for PV and energy storage installers and designers to understand fundamental design and installation principles related to Enphase Energy’s 3rd generation AC-coupled energy storage system with IQ5P batteries, System Controller 3 and AC Combiner 5C.

Location: ED ROOM
Approved for: 1-NABCEP CE

Presenter: Andrew Adelman, Enphase

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Lunch Break
2024-06-21 11:30 - 12:30 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
Join us for lunch from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm, where you can explore a variety of options. Visit our food vendors for a satisfying meal, grab a quick bite at the MREA cafe, or network with exhibitors in the Main Stage tent while you enjoy your lunch.

Check Out Our Food Vendors

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Solar Roof Demo - Unirac
2024-06-21 10:00 - 23:30 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
This is a 90-minute Interactive Solar Roof Demo held during MREA’s Industry Demo Day.
Unirac continues to transform the way you install solar from array design and logistics, to installation, training support, and services. They offer comprehensive solar racking products and services. They offer everything their customers and partners need for projects, and the services and support to help make it happen. Get hands-on with their products showcased during this interactive demo.

Location: Green Flag Tent

Presenter: Unirac

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Battery Sizing, Operations, Troubleshooting
2024-06-21 10:00 - 23:30 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
This is a 90-minute Workshop held during MREA’s Industry Demo Day.
During this workshop, we will be discussing Battery Bank Sizing, the operations/maintenance, and troubleshooting of battery-based renewable energy systems.

Location: North Building
Approved for: 1-NABCEP CE

Presenter: Steven Higgins, Technical Services Manager for Rolls Battery Engineering

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Solar Roof Demo: Van Meter + K2 Systems
2024-06-21 10:00 - 16:30 | Midwest Renewable Energy Association, 7558 Deer Rd, Custer, WI, United States
Swing by this demonstration of products and solar mounting gear from K2 Systems, Hoymiles, VSun, PLP and Van Meter. Learn how to save time, enhance performance, and streamline your project management at this demonstration presented by Van Meter’s team of former installers, electricians, and solar specialists for practical demonstrations and cutting-edge solutions.
Featuring K2/ Hoymiles/ VSun/ PLP
Location: Yellow Flag Tent
Presenter: Van Meter and K2 Systems
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